Finding the Correct Bucket Pivot Bushings for a Hitachi EX230LC-5

[MikePhua]

The Hitachi EX230LC-5 and Its Global Legacy
The Hitachi EX230LC-5 hydraulic excavator was part of the fifth-generation EX series, developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s during Hitachi’s expansion into North American and European markets. Hitachi Construction Machinery, founded in 1970 as a division of Hitachi Ltd., quickly became one of the world’s leading manufacturers of excavators, known for their precision engineering and durable hydraulic systems. The EX230LC-5 was designed for mid-size earthmoving tasks, offering a balance of reach, power, and fuel efficiency. With a 10-foot stick and an operating weight of approximately 50,000 lbs, it became a popular choice for contractors in road building, quarrying, and utility trenching.
Sales of the EX series exceeded tens of thousands globally, and many units remain in active service today. However, sourcing parts—especially for wear components like bushings—can be challenging due to serial number splits, OEM substitutions, and overlapping part systems with John Deere, which partnered with Hitachi for joint manufacturing in North America.
Terminology Annotation

• Bucket Pivot Bushing: A cylindrical sleeve installed at the pivot point between the bucket and stick, allowing smooth rotation and absorbing wear.
  
• Serial Number Split: A change in part specification or compatibility based on production sequence, often requiring precise serial number matching.
  
• OEM Substitution: Replacement of an original part number with a newer or cross-referenced number, typically due to updates or supplier changes.
  
• John Deere-Hitachi Alliance: A manufacturing partnership where Deere and Hitachi co-produced excavators, leading to shared part systems and dual part numbers.
  

Identifying the Correct Bushing
For a Hitachi EX230LC-5 with a serial number ending in 001946 and equipped with a 10-foot stick, the main bucket pivot bushings are critical wear items. Initial searches may yield multiple part numbers:

• AT217782: Often listed in Deere’s online system, possibly referencing a legacy part.
  
• 4355876: A Hitachi number that may supersede AT217782.
  
• 4203425: A newer part number confirmed by multiple sources as the correct bushing for this serial range.
  

The confusion arises from the Deere-Hitachi crossover, where identical parts may carry different identifiers depending on the catalog source. In this case, 4355876 appears to be a direct substitute for AT217782, while 4203425 is the updated specification for machines in the later serial range.
Recommended Steps for Confirmation

• Use the full serial number to access Hitachi’s official parts book or electronic catalog.
  
• Cross-reference part numbers using both Hitachi and Deere systems, noting any supersessions.
  
• Contact a dealer with access to the Hitachi Global e-Service or JDParts system for verification.
  
• Physically measure the existing bushing dimensions (outer diameter, inner diameter, length) and compare with part specifications.
  

Anecdote from the Field
A contractor in Alberta once ordered bushings for his EX230LC-5 based on visual inspection alone. Upon installation, the bushings were slightly undersized, leading to premature wear and hydraulic drift in the bucket. After consulting a dealer and providing the serial number, he received the correct part—4203425—which fit snugly and restored proper pivot function. This experience underscores the importance of serial number precision in parts ordering.
Related Case Study
In 2019, a fleet manager overseeing a mix of Hitachi and Deere excavators discovered that nearly 30% of his parts inventory was duplicated under different numbers. By implementing a unified cross-reference system and tagging machines with both OEM identifiers, he reduced ordering errors by 80% and improved turnaround time for repairs.
Preventative Maintenance and Installation Tips

• Always clean the bore and inspect for scoring before installing new bushings.
  
• Use a press or bushing driver to avoid deformation during installation.
  
• Apply anti-seize compound sparingly to prevent galling without compromising fit.
  
• Replace pivot pins simultaneously to ensure even wear distribution.
  
• Monitor bucket movement for signs of lateral play or hydraulic lag, which may indicate bushing wear.
  

Conclusion
Sourcing the correct bucket pivot bushings for a Hitachi EX230LC-5 requires more than a part number—it demands attention to serial splits, OEM substitutions, and cross-brand compatibility. With the right approach, operators can avoid costly misorders and ensure their machines continue to perform with precision. In the world of heavy equipment, even a small bushing plays a big role in productivity and reliability.